Manufacturing control system

ABSTRACT

Methods and systems for a manufacturing control system include but are not limited to identifying at least one object data file configured to produce an object by a manufacturing machine; confirming that an authorization code is associated with the object data file, the authorization code configured to be received by the manufacturing machine, the manufacturing machine adapted to receive the authorization code; and enabling the manufacturing machine to interface with the object data file only if the authorization code meets one or more predetermined conditions.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is related to and claims the benefit of theearliest available effective filing date(s) from the following listedapplication(s) (the “Related Applications”) (e.g., claims earliestavailable priority dates for other than provisional patent applicationsor claims benefits under 35 USC § 119(e) for provisional patentapplications, for any and all parent, grandparent, great-grandparent,etc. applications of the Related Application(s)).

RELATED APPLICATIONS

For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the presentapplication constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/005,162 entitled CONTROL TECHNIQUE FOR OBJECTPRODUCTION RIGHTS, naming Edward K. Y. Jung, Royce A. Levien, Robert W.Lord, Mark A. Malamud, John D. Rinaldo, Jr., Clarence T. Tegreene, andLowell L. Wood, Jr. as inventors, filed 22 Dec. 2007, which is currentlyco-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pendingapplication is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.

The United States Patent Office (USPTO) has published a notice to theeffect that the USPTO's computer programs require that patent applicantsreference both a serial number and indicate whether an application is acontinuation or continuation-in-part. Stephen G. Kunin, Benefit ofPrior-Filed Application, USPTO Official Gazette Mar. 18, 2003, availableat ttp://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/com/sol/og/2003/week 11/patbene.htm.The present Applicant Entity (hereinafter “Applicant”) has providedabove a specific reference to the application(s) from which priority isbeing claimed as recited by statute. Applicant understands that thestatute is unambiguous in its specific reference language and does notrequire either a serial number or any characterization, such as“continuation” or “continuation-in-part,” for claiming priority to U.S.patent applications. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Applicantunderstands that the USPTO's computer programs have certain data entryrequirements, and hence Applicant is designating the present applicationas a continuation-in-part of its parent applications as set forth above,but expressly points out that such designations are not to be construedin any way as any type of commentary and/or admission as to whether ornot the present application contains any new matter in addition to thematter of its parent application(s).

All subject matter of the Related Applications and of any and allparent, grandparent, great-grandparent, etc. applications of the RelatedApplications is incorporated herein by reference to the extent suchsubject matter is not inconsistent herewith.

BACKGROUND

The present application relates generally to secure manufacturing tocontrol object production rights.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, a method for secure manufacturing to control objectproduction rights includes but is not limited to identifying at leastone object data file configured to produce an object by a manufacturingmachine; confirming that an authorization code is associated with theobject data file, the authorization code configured to be received bythe manufacturing machine, the manufacturing machine adapted to receivethe authorization code; and enabling the manufacturing machine tointerface with the object data file only if the authorization code meetsone or more predetermined conditions. In addition to the foregoing,other method aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and textforming a part of the present application.

In another aspect, a computer program product related to a controltechnique for object production rights includes but is not limited to asignal bearing medium bearing at least one of one or more instructionsfor identifying at least one object data file configured to produce anobject by a manufacturing machine; one or more instructions forconfirming that an authorization code is associated with the object datafile, the authorization code configured to be received by themanufacturing machine, the manufacturing machine adapted to receive theauthorization code; and one or more instructions for enabling themanufacturing machine to interface with the object data file only if theauthorization code meets one or more predetermined conditions. Inaddition to the foregoing, other computer program product aspects aredescribed in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of thepresent application.

In one or more various aspects, related systems include but are notlimited to circuitry and/or programming for effecting theherein-referenced method aspects; the circuitry and/or programming canbe virtually any combination of hardware, software, and/or firmwareconfigured to effect the herein-referenced method aspects depending uponthe design choices of the system designer.

In one aspect, a manufacturing control system for secure manufacturingincludes a processor, a data store coupled to the processor, the datastore configured to contain authorization guideline data including oneor more authorization codes, the data store adapted for identifying atleast one object data file configured to produce an object by amanufacturing machine; a confirmation module coupled to the processor,the confirmation module configured for confirming that an authorizationcode is associated with the object data file, the authorization codeconfigured to be received by the manufacturing machine, themanufacturing machine adapted to receive the authorization code; and anauthorization module coupled to the processor, the authorization moduleconfigured for enabling the manufacturing machine to interface with theobject data file only if the authorization code meets one or morepredetermined conditions. In addition to the foregoing, other controltechniques for object production rights system aspects are described inthe claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the presentapplication.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be inany way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments,and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and featureswill become apparent by reference to the drawings and the followingdetailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary computer architecture thatsupports the claimed subject matter of the present application.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary system that supports theclaimed subject matter of the present application.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D illustrate a flow diagram of an exemplarymethod in accordance with an embodiment of the subject matter of thepresent application.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary system that supports theclaimed subject matter of the present application.

FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C illustrate a flow diagram of an exemplary method inaccordance with an embodiment of the subject matter of the presentapplication.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings,similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless contextdictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in thedetailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting.Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made,without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matterpresented here.

In the description that follows, the subject matter of the applicationwill be described with reference to acts and symbolic representations ofoperations that are performed by one or more computers, unless indicatedotherwise. As such, it will be understood that such acts and operations,which are at times referred to as being computer-executed, include themanipulation by the processing unit of the computer of electricalsignals representing data in a structured form. This manipulationtransforms the data or maintains it at locations in the memory system ofthe computer which reconfigures or otherwise alters the operation of thecomputer in a manner well understood by those skilled in the art. Thedata structures where data is maintained are physical locations of thememory that have particular properties defined by the format of thedata. However, although the subject matter of the application is beingdescribed in the foregoing context, it is not meant to be limiting asthose of skill in the art will appreciate that some of the acts andoperations described hereinafter can also be implemented in hardware,software, and/or firmware and/or some combination thereof.

With reference to FIG. 1, depicted is an exemplary computing system forimplementing embodiments. FIG. 1 includes a computer 100, including aprocessor 110, memory 120 and one or more drives 130. The drives 130 andtheir associated computer storage media, provide storage of computerreadable instructions, data structures, program modules and other datafor the computer 100. Drives 130 can include an operating system 140,application programs 150, and program modules 160. Computer 100 furtherincludes user input devices 190 through which a user may enter commandsand data. Input devices can include an electronic digitizer, amicrophone, a keyboard and pointing device, commonly referred to as amouse, trackball or touch pad. Other input devices may include ajoystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, or the like.

These and other input devices can be connected to processor 110 througha user input interface that is coupled to a system bus, but may beconnected by other interface and bus structures, such as a parallelport, game port or a universal serial bus (USB). Computers such ascomputer 100 may also include other peripheral output devices such asspeakers, which may be connected through an output peripheral interface194 or the like.

Computer 100 may operate in a networked environment using logicalconnections to one or more computers, such as a remote computerconnected to network interface 196 The remote computer may be a personalcomputer, a server, a router, a network PC, a peer device or othercommon network node, and can include many or all of the elementsdescribed above relative to computer 100. Networking environments arecommonplace in offices, enterprise-wide area networks (WAN), local areanetworks (LAN), intranets and the Internet. For example, in the subjectmatter of the present application, computer 100 may comprise the sourcemachine from which data is being migrated, and the remote computer maycomprise the destination machine or vice versa. Note however, thatsource and destination machines need not be connected by a network 108or any other means, but instead, data may be migrated via any mediacapable of being written by the source platform and read by thedestination platform or platforms. When used in a LAN or WLAN networkingenvironment, computer 100 is connected to the LAN through a networkinterface 196 or an adapter. When used in a WAN networking environment,computer 100 typically includes a modem or other means for establishingcommunications over the WAN, such as the Internet or network 108. Itwill be appreciated that other means of establishing a communicationslink between the computers may be used.

According to one embodiment, computer 100 is connected in a networkingenvironment or a manufacturing machine either directly or via network108 such that processor 110 and/or program modules 160 can perform acontrol technique for object production rights system capable ofinstantiating a digital rights management module in accordance withembodiments herein.

Referring now to FIG. 2, illustrated is an exemplary block diagram foran embodiment of a duplication control system 200 for implementing acontrol technique for object production rights system. As shown,duplication control system 200 includes a processor 210, a memory 220,coupled to the processor 210. FIG. 2 also illustrates a transceiver 230which can be configured to send and receive one or more object datafiles or directly interact with a computing device 270 for receivingobject data files. FIG. 2 also illustrates digital rights managementmodule 240 accessible by processor 210 and by network 108 (see FIG. 1).FIG. 2 further illustrates a data store 250 coupled to processor 210.Digital rights management module 240 is configured to control digitalrights for object data files. In one embodiment, digital rightsmanagement module 240 is coupled to comparison module 260, which canalso be disposed within memory 220. In one embodiment, comparison module260 compares the digital rights management codes to a stored list ofdigital rights management codes to determine the authorization status asa function of the status of one or more previously compiled object datafiles. Comparison module 260 can further interact with object data filesresiding in memory 252, outside of memory 253, or in data store asobject data files 254. In one embodiment, object data files 252, 253and/or 254 include one or more computer-aided design (CAD) solid modelfiles configured to create three dimensional physical objects.

Data store 250 is configured to include authorization guideline data256. In one embodiment, the authorization guideline data can include onedigital certificates 2562, private/public key data 2564, one or moredigital rights management codes 2566 for manufacturing machines, and/ordigital rights management codes 2568. In one embodiment, authorizationguideline data includes list 2569 which can be a list of digital rightsmanagement codes, a list of object data files, or any list that couldbe, for example, associated with multiple manufacturing machines 290that require multiple authorization rights to be analyzed or the like.In one embodiment, list 2569 includes globally unique identifiers (GUID)that can function as digital rights management codes and providecryptographic control over the one or more object data files.

In the embodiment in which data store 250 includes object data files254, the object data files can be files that previously existed in datastore 250, or can be files that were previously received by theduplication control system 200 via transceiver 230, memory 220, network108.

In one embodiment, data store 250 stores digital rights management codesseparately from object data files, with the digital rights managementcodes decipherable with a public key, private key combination.

FIG. 2 further illustrates manufacturing machines 290(1-n) coupled tocontrol system 200. The multiple manufacturing machines 290(1-n) canallow manufacture of an object described by the one or more object datafiles according to permissions provided in the one or more digitalrights management codes.

In one embodiment, duplication control system 200 is coupled to each ofthe one or more manufacturing machines 290(1-n) to allow manufacture ofan object described by the one or more object data files according topermissions provided in the one or more digital rights management codes.

In one embodiment, manufacturing machines 290(1-n) are three-dimensionaladditive manufacturing machines configured for rapid prototyping,three-dimensional printing, two-dimensional printing, freeformfabrication, solid freeform fabrication, and stereolithography.

In another embodiment, manufacturing machines 290(1-n) can include asubtractive manufacturing machine, including machines adapted fordrilling, milling, turning, laser cutting, waterjet cutting, plasmacutting, wire electrical discharge cutting, cold, warm and hot forgingmetal fabrication, computer numerical controlled fabrication machine,and/or an additive manufacturing machine, and/or an injection moldingmachine.

In another embodiment, manufacturing machines 290(1-n) can include anextrusion manufacturing machine, a melting manufacturing machine, asolidification manufacturing machine, an ejection manufacturing machine,a die casting manufacturing machine, a stamping process machine.

In another embodiment, manufacturing machines 290(1-n) can include asubtractive manufacturing machine, including machines adapted fordrilling, milling, turning, laser cutting, waterjet cutting, plasmacutting, wire electrical discharge cutting, cold, warm and hot forgingmetal fabrication, computer numerical controlled fabrication machine,and/or an additive manufacturing machine, and/or an injection moldingmachine.

In another embodiment, manufacturing machines 290(1-n) can include amanufacturing machine configured to perform manufacturing using one ormore of metal, wood, ice, stone, glass, nuclear materials,pharmaceuticals, edible substances, sand, ceramic materials, aluminum,silicon, carbides, silicon nitrides, silicon carbides, metal/ceramiccombinations including aluminum/silicon nitride, aluminum/siliconcarbide, aluminum/zirconia and aluminum/aluminum nitride includingmaterials alterable by friction, heating and cooling.

It will be understood that the illustrated system embodiments of FIGS.1-2 are provide by way of example only, and are not intended to belimiting. Furthermore, it will be understood that the various processfeatures and system components disclosed herein may be incorporated indifferent embodiment combinations depending on the circumstances.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D an exemplary flow diagramillustrates the operation of a control technique for object productionrights system according to one or more embodiments.

As illustrated in FIG. 3A, block 310 provides for receiving at theduplication control system a digital rights management code, the digitalrights management code associated with one or more object data files(e.g., duplication control system 200 receiving digital rightsmanagement code associated with one or more object data file viacomputing device 270, network 108, and/or manufacturing machine(s)290(1-n)). Depicted within block 310 is optional block 3102, whichprovides for receiving the digital rights management code as digitalrights management code decipherable with a public key, private keycombination (e.g., a duplication control system 200 receiving one ormore digital rights management code as cryptographically sealed coderequiring a public key, private key pair).

Depicted within block 310 is optional block 3104, which provides forreceiving the digital rights management code as a globally uniqueidentifier (GUID) predetermined for an owner of the one or more objectdata files, the GUID providing cryptographic control over the one ormore object data files (e.g., a duplication control system 200 receivingdigital rights management code as a globally unique identifier (GUID)predetermined for an owner of the one or more object data files, theGUID providing cryptographic control from a manufacturing machine 290,and/or computer 100).

Depicted within block 3104 is optional block 31041 which provides forreceiving the digital rights management code coupled to the one or moreobject data files (e.g., duplication control system 200 receivingdigital rights management code coupled to one or more object datafiles).

Depicted within block 3104 is optional block 31042 which provides forreceiving the digital rights management code separately from the one ormore object data files (e.g., duplication control system 200 receivingdigital rights management code in a separate transaction overtransceiver 230).

Depicted within block 30142 is optional block 310422 which provides forreceiving the digital rights management code coupled to the one or moreobject data files, the digital rights management code decipherable witha public key, private key combination (e.g., duplication control system200 receiving digital rights management code over network 108, fromcomputing device 270 and/or from manufacturing machine 290 (1-n) whereinthe digital rights management code is protected by a public key, privatekey pair). In one embodiment the digital rights management codes can beglobally unique identifier (GUID) predetermined for an owner of the oneor more object data files, the GUID providing cryptographic control overthe one or more object data files. In other embodiments, the GUID can beassociated with a public/private key pair.

Also depicted within block 3104 is optional block 31044, which providesfor comparing the digital rights management code to a stored list of oneor more digital rights management codes to determine if any of the oneor more object data files are related to one or more previously compiledobject data files (e.g., comparison module 260 performing comparisons ofthe digital management code with a stored list in data store 250 ofdigital rights management codes to determine if the object data filesare related to one more previously compiled object data files, theobject data files can be received via manufacturing machine 290(1-n),computing device 270 and/or computing device 280 over network 109).Optional block 31044 is coupled to optional block 31046 which providesfor determining a status of the one or more previously compiled objectdata files (e.g., digital rights management module 240 determining astatus of the previously compiled object data files).

Optional block 31046 is further coupled to optional block 31048 whichprovides for determining the authorization status as a function of ausage status of the one or more previously compiled object data files(e.g., digital rights management module 240 determining a status as afunction of a usage status of the previously compiled object datafiles).

31048 includes optional block 310482 which provides for determining ausage status according to a compiling history of the object data files,the compiling history providing data related to a prior manufacturinghistory including one or more of a materials needs history, amanufacturing result history, and a manufacturing time (e.g., digitalrights management module 240 determining a status of the previouslycompiled object data files received via network 108, computing device270, manufacturing machines 290(1-n) and/or data store 250).

Block 31048 further depicts optional block 310484, which provides fordetermining a usage status according to a compiling history of theobject data files, the compiling history providing data related to aprior manufacturing history including a trouble history affecting theauthorization status (e.g., digital rights management module 240determining a status of the previously compiled object data filescompiling history and trouble history affecting an authorization statusreceived via network 108, computing device 270, manufacturing machines290(1-n) and/or data store 250).

Further depicted within block 31048 is optional block 310486 whichprovides for determining a usage status according to a compiling historyof the object data files, the compiling history providing data relatedto a prior manufacturing history including a location of manufacturinghistory indicative of one or more of a number of locations ofcompilation and/or a number of compilations at a manufacturing location(e.g., digital rights management module 240 determining a number oflocations of compilation and/or number of compilations of the previouslycompiled object data files received via network 108, computing device270, manufacturing machines 290(1-n) and/or data store 250).

Optional block 31048 further depicts optional blocks 310488 and 310489.Optional block 310488 provides for determining a usage status accordingto a number of times the one or more object data files had been compiled(e.g., digital rights management module 240 determining a status of thepreviously compiled object data files received via network 108,computing device 270, manufacturing machines 290(1-n) and/or data store250). Optional block 31049 provides for comparing the usage status witha permission associated with the digital rights management code (e.g.,digital rights management module 240 determining a status of thepreviously compiled object data files received via network 108,computing device 270, manufacturing machines 290(1-n) and/or data store250 and comparing via comparison module 260 a usage status with apermission associated with the digital rights management code).

Referring now to FIG. 3B, the flow diagram depicting a method accordingto an embodiment continues. Specifically, block 310 further depictsoptional block 3105, which provides for receiving at the duplicationcontrol system the digital rights management code, the duplicationcontrol system integrated with one or more three-dimensionalmanufacturing machines to perform additive manufacturing using one ormore of ABS (Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), ABSi (ABS with highimpact strength), ABS M-30 (Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), PC(Polycarbonate), PC-ISO (Polycarbonate-ISO), PC/ABS (Polycarbonate/ABSBlend), PPSF (Polyphenylsulfone), clear and/or colored resin (e.g.,duplication control system 200 receiving digital rights management code,wherein duplication control system 200 is integrated with one or more ofmanufacturing machines 290(1-n) that perform three-dimensionalmanufacturing to perform additive manufacturing).

Block 310 further depicts optional block 3106, which provides forreceiving at the duplication control system the digital rightsmanagement code, the duplication control system integrated with one ormore three-dimensional manufacturing machines to perform manufacturingusing one or more of metal, wood, ice, stone, glass, nuclear materials,pharmaceuticals, edible substances, sand, ceramic materials, aluminum,silicon, carbides, silicon nitrides, silicon carbides, metal/ceramiccombinations including aluminum/silicon nitride, aluminum/siliconcarbide, aluminum/zirconia and aluminum/aluminum nitride includingmaterials alterable by friction, heating and cooling (e.g., duplicationcontrol system 200 receiving digital rights management code, whereinduplication control system 200 is integrated with one or more ofmanufacturing machines 290(1-n) that perform three-dimensionalmanufacturing to perform manufacturing of metal, wood, ice, stone,glass, nuclear materials, pharmaceuticals, edible substances, sand,ceramic materials, aluminum, silicon, carbides, silicon nitrides,silicon carbides, and/or metal/ceramic combinations).

Block 310 further depicts optional block 3107, which provides forreceiving at the duplication control system the digital rightsmanagement code, the duplication control system integrated with one ormore two-dimensional manufacturing machines to perform manufacturingusing one or more of skin, textiles, edible substances, paper, siliconprinting (e.g., duplication control system 200 receiving digital rightsmanagement code, wherein duplication control system 200 is integratedwith one or more of manufacturing machines 290(1-n) to performtwo-dimensional manufacturing).

Block 310 further depicts optional block 3108, which provides forreceiving at the duplication control system the one or more object datafiles wherein the one or more object data files are three-dimensionalobject data files including at least one or more computer-aided design(CAD) solid model files configured to create one or more threedimensional physical objects (e.g., duplication control system 200receiving digital rights management code, wherein duplication controlsystem 200 is integrated with one or more of manufacturing machines290(1-n) to perform three-dimensional manufacturing of CAD files.

Referring now to FIG. 3C, the flow diagram depicting a method inaccordance with an embodiment continues. Block 320 illustrates an aspectfor generating an authorization status based on the digital rightsmanagement code (e.g., digital rights management module 240 generatingthe authorization status based on received or stored digital rightsmanagement code). Depicted within block 320 is optional block 3202 whichprovides for comparing the digital rights management code to a machineidentifier associated with the one or more manufacturing machines todetermine whether any of the one or more manufacturing machines isauthorized to produce an object described in the object data files (e.g.comparison module 260 comparing the digital rights management code to amachine identifier supplied by one or more of manufacturing machines290(1-n)).

Block 320 further depicts optional block 3204 which provides forcomparing the digital rights management code to a database of digitalrights management codes, the database providing the authorization statusassociated with the digital rights management code (e.g., comparisonmodule 260 comparing the digital rights management code to a database indata store 250 storing digital rights management codes, includingauthorization status).

Depicted within optional block 3204 is optional block 32042 whichprovides for comparing the digital rights management code to thedatabase of digital rights management codes to determine one or more ofa licensing status, a royalty status, an expiration date pertaining to alicense, and a number of manufacturing runs permitted according to alicense (e.g., comparison module 260 comparing the digital rightsmanagement code to determine a licensing status, royalty status,expiration date, number of times a license permits a manufacturing runand the like).

Referring now to FIG. 3D, the flow diagram continues illustrating themethod in accordance with an embodiment with block 330. Specifically,block 330 illustrates an aspect for configuring one or moremanufacturing machines to operate as a function of the authorizationstatus (e.g., processor 210 and digital rights management moduleconfiguring one or more manufacturing machines 290(1-n) to operate inaccordance with the authorization status determined by comparison module260).

Depicted within block 330 is optional block 3302 which provides forenabling the one or more manufacturing machines to operate if theauthorization status provides permission for operation wherein the oneor more manufacturing machines perform one or more of rapid prototyping,three-dimensional printing, two-dimensional printing, freeformfabrication, solid freeform fabrication, and stereolithography (e.g.,digital rights management module 240 interacting with one or more ofmanufacturing machines 290(1-n) to operate according the authorizationstatus).

Also depicted within block 330 is optional block 3304 which provides forenabling the one or more manufacturing machines to operate if theauthorization status provides permission for operation wherein the oneor more manufacturing machines include a subtractive manufacturingmachine, including machines adapted for drilling, milling, turning,laser cutting, waterjet cutting, plasma cutting, wire electricaldischarge cutting, cold, warm and hot forging metal fabrication,computer numerical controlled fabrication machine, and/or an additivemanufacturing machine, and/or an injection molding machine (e.g.,digital rights management module 240 interacting with the one or moremanufacturing machines 290(1-n) to operate if the authorization statusprovides permission for operation, the one or more manufacturingmachines 290(1-n) including subtractive manufacturing machines).

Further depicted within block 330 is optional block 3306 which providesfor enabling the one or more manufacturing machines to operate if theauthorization status provides permission for operation wherein the oneor more manufacturing machines include one or more of an extrusionmanufacturing machine, a melting manufacturing machine, a solidificationmanufacturing machine, an ejection manufacturing machine, a die castingmanufacturing machine, a stamping process machine (e.g., digital rightsmanagement module 240 interacting with the one or more manufacturingmachines 290(1-n) to operate if the authorization status providespermission for operation, the one or more manufacturing machines290(1-n) can include an extrusion manufacturing machine, a meltingmanufacturing machine, a solidification manufacturing machine, anejection manufacturing machine, a die casting manufacturing machine, astamping process machine or the like).

Referring now to the schematic depiction of FIG. 4, illustrated is anexemplary block diagram for an embodiment of a manufacturing controlsystem 400 for controlling digital production rights for producing aphysical object. As shown, manufacturing control system 400 includes amemory 420 coupled to the processor 410. Manufacturing control system400 further includes transceiver 430 that is shown to be coupled throughoptional controller 470 to processor 410. FIG. 4 also illustratestransceiver 430 which can be configured to send and receive one or moreobject data files or directly interact with a computing device 482 forreceiving object data files. FIG. 4 also illustrates digital rightsconfirmation module 440 accessible by processor 410 and by network 108(see FIG. 1). FIG. 4 further illustrates a data store 450 and anauthorization module 455 coupled to processor 410.

Digital rights confirmation module 440 is configured to control digitalrights for object data files 452, 453 and/or 454. Authorization module455 is configured for enabling a manufacturing machine (e.g.,manufacturing machines 497, 498) to interface with an object data fileonly if an authorization code 458 meets one or more predeterminedconditions. In one embodiment, digital rights confirmation module 440 iscoupled to authorization module 455 and to comparison module 460, whichcan also be disposed within memory 420. In one embodiment, comparisonmodule 460 compares one or more authorization codes to a stored list ofdigital rights management codes to determine the authorization status asa function of the status of one or more previously compiled object datafiles. Comparison module 460 can further interact with object data files452, object data files 453, or object data files 454. In one embodiment,object data files 452, 453 and/or 454 include one or more computer-aideddesign (CAD) solid model files configured to create three dimensionalphysical objects. In other embodiments the object data files areconfigured to create two-dimensional objects, renderings, prototypes andthe like.

Data store 450 is configured to include authorization guideline data 456such as authorization code(s) 458 or other digital rights authorizationdata. In the embodiment in which data store 450 includes object datafiles 454, the object data files can be files that previously existed indata store 450, or can be files that were previously received by themanufacturing control system 400 via transceiver 430, memory 420,network 108.

FIG. 4 further illustrates manufacturing machines coupled to controlsystem 400. Specifically, manufacturing control system 400 isillustrated coupled to subtraction machine 491, stamping machine 492,extrusion machine 493, melting machine 494, die-casting machine 495,solidifying machine 496, and generic manufacturing machine 497.Manufacturing control system 400 is further coupled to manufacturingmachine 498 via network 108 and computing device 480. In one embodiment,subtraction machine 491 can be configured with a controller 472 and bealternatively coupled to manufacturing control system via network 108 ordirectly. Subtraction machine 491 illustrates an exemplary manufacturingmachine with a controller 472 to control digital production rightsdirectly and/or over a network connection. Likewise, manufacturingmachine 498 could be coupled to a controller located in computing device480 or receive control directions from manufacturing control system 400.Each of manufacturing machines 491-498 can allow manufacture of anobject described by the one or more object data files as directed bymanufacturing control system 400 and controllers 470 and 472.

As shown, manufacturing machines 491-498 can be three-dimensionaladditive manufacturing machines configured for rapid prototyping,three-dimensional printing, two-dimensional printing, freeformfabrication, solid freeform fabrication, and stereolithography.

Manufacturing machines 491-498 include a subtractive manufacturingmachine 491, which can be adapted for drilling, milling, turning, lasercutting, waterjet cutting, plasma cutting, wire electrical dischargecutting, cold, warm and hot forging metal fabrication, computernumerical controlled fabrication machine, and/or an additivemanufacturing machine, and/or an injection molding machine.

Manufacturing machines 491-498 are shown including an extrusionmanufacturing machine 493, a melting manufacturing machine 494, asolidification manufacturing machine 496, a die casting manufacturingmachine 495, a stamping process machine 492, and a generic manufacturingmachine 497 which can be configured as an ejection manufacturingmachine.

In another embodiment, manufacturing machines 497 and/or 498 can beconfigured to perform manufacturing using one or more of metal, wood,ice, stone, glass, nuclear materials, pharmaceuticals, ediblesubstances, sand, ceramic materials, aluminum, silicon, carbides,silicon nitrides, silicon carbides, metal/ceramic combinations includingaluminum/silicon nitride, aluminum/silicon carbide, aluminum/zirconia,aluminum/aluminum nitride including materials alterable by friction,heating and cooling.

In another embodiment, manufacturing machines 497 and/or 498 can includea manufacturing machine configured as two-dimensional manufacturingmachines configured to perform manufacturing of one or more of skin,textiles, edible substances, paper and/or silicon printing.

Referring now to FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C, a flow diagram illustrates amethod in accordance with an embodiment. Block 510 provides foridentifying at least one object data file configured to produce anobject by a manufacturing machine (e.g., controller 470 and/or 472identifying object data files 452, 453, 454 to produce an object bymanufacturing machines 497, 498, and/or subtraction machine 491,stamping machine 492, extrusion machine 493, melting machine 494,die-casting machine 495 and/or solidifying machine 496). Disposed withinblock 510 is optional block 5102 which provides for receiving a file ata control system coupled to the manufacturing machine, the controlsystem receiving the file including the authorization code and theobject data file as one or more of a binary file and/or astereolithography (STL) file and/or a computer-aided design (CAD) solidmodel file and/or a self executing data file and/or a basic machine toolinstruction file (e.g., transceiver 430 in control system 400 receivingobject data files 452, 453, 454). Further disposed in block 510 isoptional block 5104 which provides for identifying the at least oneobject data file, wherein the object data file is configured to producethe object via attaching, printing, painting, engraving and/or tattooingby the manufacturing machine (e.g., transceiver 430 and control system400 identifying object data files 452, 453, 454). Further disposed inblock 510 is block 5105 which provides for receiving the object datafile as a computer-aided design (CAD) model file configured to createone or more physical objects, the object data file including theauthorization code configured as a checksum of the CAD model file (e.g.,transceiver 430 receiving object data files 452, 453, 454 includingauthorization code configured as a checksum of a CAD model file).

Disposed within block 5105 is optional block 51052, which provides forenabling the manufacturing machine to interface with the object datafile when the one or more predetermined conditions are met, the one ormore predetermined conditions including a pass condition following alogical operation on the checksum (e.g., controller 470, controller 472and/or processor 410 enabling manufacturing machines 497, 498, and/orsubtraction machine 491, stamping machine 492, extrusion machine 493,melting machine 494, die-casting machine 495 and/or solidifying machine496 to interface with object data files 452, 453, and/or 454 whenpredetermined conditions are met, including a pass condition).

Further disposed in block 510 is optional block 5107 and optional block5108. Optional block 5107 provides for extracting the authorization codeas a checksum code (e.g., processor 410, controller 470 and/orcontroller 472 extracting authorization code from object data files 452,453 and/or 454). Optional block 5108 provides for comparing the checksumcode to a stored checksum code, the stored checksum code determined by agenerated machine identifier associated with the manufacturing machine(e.g. comparison module 460 comparing checksum code to checksum codestored in data store 450 and/or manufacturing machines 497, 498, and/orsubtraction machine 491, stamping machine 492, extrusion machine 493,melting machine 494, die-casting machine 495 and/or solidifying machine496).

Further disposed in block 510 is optional block 5109 which provides forenabling the manufacturing machine to perform if the authorization codemeets the one or more predetermined conditions, including performingadditive manufacturing using one or more of a metal, ABS(Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), ABSi (ABS with high impact strength),ABS M-30 (Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), PC (Polycarbonate), PC-ISO(Polycarbonate-ISO), PC/ABS (Polycarbonate/ABS Blend), PPSF(Polyphenylsulfone), clear and/or colored resin (e.g., controller 470,472 and/or control system 400 enabling manufacturing machines 497, 498,and/or subtraction machine 491, stamping machine 492, extrusion machine493, melting machine 494, die-casting machine 495 and/or solidifyingmachine 496 to perform if the authorization code meets the one or morepredetermined conditions).

Block 520 provides for confirming that an authorization code isassociated with the object data file, the authorization code configuredto be received by the manufacturing machine, the manufacturing machineadapted to receive the authorization code (e.g. controller 470 and/or472 and/or manufacturing control system 400 confirming that anauthorization code is associated with one or more of object data files452, 453, and/or 454 to be received by one or more of manufacturingmachines 491-498. Depicted within block 520 is optional block 5202 whichprovides for removing a header from a file, the header including theauthorization code, the file organized to include the header and theobject data file (e.g. processor 410 removing a header from one or moreof object data files 452, 453 and/or 454, the header including theauthorization code). Further depicted in block 520 is optional block5204 which provides for running an application to extract theauthorization code, the application configured to run a hash algorithm,the application determining whether the one or more predeterminedconditions are met (e.g., processor 410 running an application stored inmemory 420 to extract an authorization code from one or more of objectdata files 452, 453, and/or 454).

Block 530 provides for enabling the manufacturing machine to interfacewith the object data file only if the authorization code meets one ormore predetermined conditions (e.g., controller 470, 472 and/or controlsystem 400 enabling manufacturing machines 497, 498, and/or subtractionmachine 491, stamping machine 492, extrusion machine 493, meltingmachine 494, die-casting machine 495 and/or solidifying machine 496 tointerface with object data files 452, 453, and/or 454 only if theauthorization code meets one or more predetermined conditions). Depictedwithin block 530 is optional block 5302 which provides for enabling aphysical component of the manufacturing machine to function if theauthorization code meets the one or more predetermined conditions (e.g.,controller 470, 472 and/or control system 400 enabling physicalcomponent within or attached to manufacturing machines 497, 498, and/orsubtraction machine 491, stamping machine 492, extrusion machine 493,melting machine 494, die-casting machine 495 and/or solidifying machine496 to function if the authorization code meets predeterminedconditions). Also depicted within block 530 is optional block 5304,which provides for enabling a read function of the manufacturing machineif the authorization code meets a checksum requirement prior to openingthe object data file (e.g., controller 470, 472 and/or control system400 enabling a read function of manufacturing machines 497, 498, and/orsubtraction machine 491, stamping machine 492, extrusion machine 493,melting machine 494, die-casting machine 495 and/or solidifying machine496 if the authorization code meets a checksum requirement). Furtherdepicted within block 530 is optional block 5306 which provides forenabling a physical component of the manufacturing machine to functionif the authorization code matches one or more codes in an accessiblelist of codes coupled to the manufacturing machine (e.g., controller470, 472 and/or control system 400 enabling a physical component ofmanufacturing machines 497, 498, and/or subtraction machine 491,stamping machine 492, extrusion machine 493, melting machine 494,die-casting machine 495 and/or solidifying machine 496 if theauthorization code matches an accessible list of codes). Furtherdepicted within block 530 is optional 5308 which provides for enablingthe object data file to become readable by the manufacturing machine ifthe authorization code matches a machine identifier associated with themanufacturing machine (e.g., controller 470, 472 and/or control system400 enabling one or more of object data files 452, 453, and/or 454 tobecome readable by one or more of manufacturing machines 497, 498,and/or subtraction machine 491, stamping machine 492, extrusion machine493, melting machine 494, die-casting machine 495 and/or solidifyingmachine 496 if the authorization code matches a machine identifierassociated with the one or more manufacturing machines 491-498).

Block 540 provides for enabling the manufacturing machine to perform oneor more of stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS),computer numerical control (CNC), and fused deposition modeling (FDM) ifthe authorization code meets the one or more predetermined conditions(e.g., controller 470, 472 and/or control system 400 enabling one ormore of manufacturing machines 497, 498, and/or subtraction machine 491,stamping machine 492, extrusion machine 493, melting machine 494,die-casting machine 495 and/or solidifying machine 496 to perform one ormore of stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS),computer numerical control (CNC), and fused deposition modeling (FDM) ifthe authorization code meets the one or more predetermined conditions).

Block 550 provides for enabling the manufacturing machine to perform ifthe authorization code meets the one or more predetermined conditions,including performing additive manufacturing using one or more of ABS(Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), ABSi (ABS with high impact strength),ABS M-30 (Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), PC (Polycarbonate), PC-ISO(Polycarbonate-ISO), PC/ABS (Polycarbonate/ABS Blend), PPSF(Polyphenylsulfone), clear and/or colored resin (e.g., controller 470,472 and/or control system 400 enabling one or more of manufacturingmachines 497, 498, and/or subtraction machine 491, stamping machine 492,extrusion machine 493, melting machine 494, die-casting machine 495and/or solidifying machine 496 to perform if the authorization codemeets the one or more predetermined conditions).

Block 560 provides for enabling the manufacturing machine to perform ifthe authorization code meets the one or more predetermined conditions,including performing three-dimensional manufacturing using one or moreof metal, wood, ice, stone, glass, nuclear materials, pharmaceuticals,edible substances, sand, ceramic materials, aluminum, silicon, carbides,silicon nitrides, silicon carbides, metal/ceramic combinations includingaluminum/silicon nitride, aluminum/silicon carbide, aluminum/zirconiaand aluminum/aluminum nitride including materials alterable by friction,heating and cooling (e.g., controller 470, 472 and/or control system 400enabling one or more of manufacturing machines 497, 498, and/orsubtraction machine 491, stamping machine 492, extrusion machine 493,melting machine 494, die-casting machine 495 and/or solidifying machine496 to perform if the authorization code meets the one or morepredetermined conditions).

Block 570 provides for enabling the manufacturing machine to perform ifthe authorization code meets the one or more predetermined conditions,including manufacturing using one or more of skin, textiles, ediblesubstances, paper, and silicon printing (e.g. controller 470, 472 and/orcontrol system 400 enabling one or more of manufacturing machines 497,498, and/or subtraction machine 491, stamping machine 492, extrusionmachine 493, melting machine 494, die-casting machine 495 and/orsolidifying machine 496 to perform if the authorization code meets theone or more predetermined conditions).

Those with skill in the computing arts will recognize that the disclosedembodiments have relevance to a wide variety of applications andarchitectures in addition to those described above. In addition, thefunctionality of the subject matter of the present application can beimplemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software andhardware. The hardware portion can be implemented using specializedlogic; the software portion can be stored in a memory or recordingmedium and executed by a suitable instruction execution system such as amicroprocessor.

While the subject matter of the application has been shown and describedwith reference to particular embodiments thereof, it will be understoodby those skilled in the art that the foregoing and other changes in formand detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit andscope of the subject matter of the application, including but notlimited to additional, less or modified elements and/or additional, lessor modified blocks performed in the same or a different order.

Those having skill in the art will recognize that the state of the arthas progressed to the point where there is little distinction leftbetween hardware and software implementations of aspects of systems. Theuse of hardware or software is generally (but not always, in that incertain contexts the choice between hardware and software can becomesignificant) a design choice representing cost vs. efficiency tradeoffs.Those having skill in the art will appreciate that there are variousvehicles by which processes and/or systems and/or other technologiesdescribed herein can be effected (e.g., hardware, software, and/orfirmware), and that the preferred vehicle will vary with the context inwhich the processes and/or systems and/or other technologies aredeployed. For example, if an implementer determines that speed andaccuracy are paramount, the implementer may opt for a mainly hardwareand/or firmware vehicle; alternatively, if flexibility is paramount, theimplementer may opt for a mainly software implementation; or, yet againalternatively, the implementer may opt for some combination of hardware,software, and/or firmware. Hence, there are several possible vehicles bywhich the processes and/or devices and/or other technologies describedherein may be effected, none of which is inherently superior to theother in that any vehicle to be utilized is a choice dependent upon thecontext in which the vehicle will be deployed and the specific concerns(e.g., speed, flexibility, or predictability) of the implementer, any ofwhich may vary. Those skilled in the art will recognize that opticalaspects of implementations will typically employ optically-orientedhardware, software, and or firmware.

The foregoing detailed description has set forth various embodiments ofthe devices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, flowcharts,and/or examples. Insofar as such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/orexamples contain one or more functions and/or operations, it will beunderstood by those within the art that each function and/or operationwithin such block diagrams, flowcharts, or examples can be implemented,individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software,firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. In one embodiment,several portions of the subject matter described herein may beimplemented via Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), FieldProgrammable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), orother integrated formats. However, those skilled in the art willrecognize that some aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein, inwhole or in part, can be equivalently implemented in integratedcircuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or morecomputers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more computersystems), as one or more programs running on one or more processors(e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more microprocessors),as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof, and that designingthe circuitry and/or writing the code for the software and or firmwarewould be well within the skill of one of skilled in the art in light ofthis disclosure. In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciatethat the mechanisms of the subject matter described herein are capableof being distributed as a program product in a variety of forms, andthat an illustrative embodiment of the subject matter described hereinapplies regardless of the particular type of signal bearing medium usedto actually carry out the distribution. Examples of a signal bearingmedium include, but are not limited to, the following: a recordable typemedium such as a floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a Compact Disc (CD), aDigital Video Disk (DVD), a digital tape, a computer memory, etc.; and atransmission type medium such as a digital and/or an analogcommunication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wiredcommunications link, a wireless communication link, etc.)

The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates differentcomponents contained within, or connected with, different othercomponents. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures aremerely exemplary, and that in fact many other architectures can beimplemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense,any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality iseffectively “associated” such that the desired functionality isachieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve aparticular functionality can be seen as “associated with” each othersuch that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective ofarchitectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components soassociated can also be viewed as being “operably connected”, or“operably coupled”, to each other to achieve the desired functionality,Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited tophysically mateable and/or physically interacting components and/orwirelessly interactable and/or wirelessly interacting components and/orlogically interacting and/or logically interactable components.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that it is common within the artto implement devices and/or processes and/or systems in the fashion(s)set forth herein, and thereafter use engineering and/or businesspractices to integrate such implemented devices and/or processes and/orsystems into more comprehensive devices and/or processes and/or systems.That is, at least a portion of the devices and/or processes and/orsystems described herein can be integrated into comprehensive devicesand/or processes and/or systems via a reasonable amount ofexperimentation. Those having skill in the art will recognize thatexamples of such comprehensive devices and/or processes and/or systemsmight include, as appropriate to context and application, all or part ofdevices and/or processes and/or systems of (a) an air conveyance (e.g.,an airplane, rocket, hovercraft, helicopter, etc.), (b) a groundconveyance (e.g., a car, truck, locomotive, tank, armored personnelcarrier, etc.), (c) a building (e.g., a home, warehouse, office, etc.),(d) an appliance (e.g., a refrigerator, a washing machine, a dryer,etc.), (e) a communications system (e.g., a networked system, atelephone system, a Voice over IP system, etc.), (f) a business entity(e.g., an Internet Service Provider (ISP) entity such as Comcast Cable,Quest, Southwestern Bell, etc.); or (g) a wired/wireless services entitysuch as Sprint, Cingular, Nextel, etc.), etc.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, termsused herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of theappended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term“including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” theterm “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term“includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,”etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if aspecific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such anintent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence ofsuch recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid tounderstanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of theintroductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claimrecitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed toimply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinitearticles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing suchintroduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one suchrecitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases“one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or“an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “atleast one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use ofdefinite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, evenif a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitlyrecited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitationshould typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number(e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without othermodifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or morerecitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a conventionanalogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in generalsuch a construction is intended in the sense one having skilled in theart would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least oneof A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have Aalone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and Ctogether, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where aconvention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, ingeneral, such a construction is intended in the sense one having skillsin the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having atleast one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systemsthat have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together,B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be furtherunderstood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive wordand/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in thedescription, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplatethe possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, orboth terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood toinclude the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, otheraspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes ofillustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scopeand spirit being indicated by the following claims.

1. A method for secure manufacturing to control object productionrights, the method comprising: identifying at least one object data fileconfigured to produce an object by a manufacturing machine; confirmingthat an authorization code is associated with the object data file, theauthorization code configured to be received by the manufacturingmachine, the manufacturing machine adapted to receive the authorizationcode; and enabling the manufacturing machine to interface with theobject data file only if the authorization code meets one or morepredetermined conditions.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein theidentifying at least one object data file configured to produce anobject by a manufacturing machine includes: receiving a file at acontrol system coupled to the manufacturing machine, the control systemreceiving the file including the authorization code and the object datafile as one or more of a binary file and/or a stereolithography (STL)file and/or a computer-aided design (CAD) solid model file and/or a selfexecuting data file and/or a basic machine tool instruction file.
 3. Themethod of claim 1 wherein the identifying at least one object data fileconfigured to produce an object by a manufacturing machine includes:identifying the at least one object data file, wherein the object datafile is configured to produce the object via attaching, printing,painting, engraving and/or tattooing by the manufacturing machine. 4.The method of claim 1 wherein the identifying at least one object datafile configured to produce an object by a manufacturing machineincludes: receiving the object data file as a computer-aided design(CAD) model file configured to create one or more physical objects, theobject data file including the authorization code configured as achecksum of the CAD model file.
 5. The method of claim 4 wherein thereceiving the object data file as a computer-aided design (CAD) modelfile configured to create one or more physical objects, the object datafile including the authorization code configured as a checksum of theCAD model file includes: enabling the manufacturing machine to interfacewith the object data file when the one or more predetermined conditionsare met, the one or more predetermined conditions including a passcondition following a logical operation on the checksum.
 6. The methodof claim 1 wherein the confirming that an authorization code isassociated with the object data file, the authorization code configuredto be received by the manufacturing machine, the manufacturing machineadapted to receive the authorization code includes one or more of:extracting the authorization code as a checksum code; and comparing thechecksum code to a stored checksum code, the stored checksum codedetermined by a generated machine identifier associated with themanufacturing machine.
 7. The method of claim 1 wherein the enabling themanufacturing machine to interface with the object data file only if theauthorization code meets one or more predetermined conditions includes:enabling the manufacturing machine to perform if the authorization codemeets the one or more predetermined conditions, including performingadditive manufacturing using one or more of a metal, ABS(Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), ABSi (ABS with high impact strength),ABS M-30 (Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), PC (Polycarbonate), PC-ISO(Polycarbonate-ISO), PC/ABS (Polycarbonate/ABS Blend), PPSF(Polyphenylsulfone), clear and/or colored resin.
 8. The method of claim1 wherein the confirming that an authorization code is associated withthe object data file, the authorization code configured to be receivedby the manufacturing machine, the manufacturing machine adapted toreceive the authorization code includes: removing a header from a file,the header including the authorization code, the file organized toinclude the header and the object data file.
 9. The method of claim 1wherein the confirming that an authorization code is associated with theobject data file, the authorization code configured to be received bythe manufacturing machine, the manufacturing machine adapted to receivethe authorization code includes: running an application to extract theauthorization code, the application configured to run a hash algorithm,the application determining whether the one or more predeterminedconditions are met.
 10. The method of claim 1 wherein the enabling themanufacturing machine to interface with the object data file only if theauthorization code meets one or more predetermined conditions includes:enabling a physical component of the manufacturing machine to functionif the authorization code meets the one or more predeterminedconditions.
 11. The method of claim 1 wherein the enabling themanufacturing machine to interface with the object data file only if theauthorization code meets one or more predetermined conditions includes:enabling a read function of the manufacturing machine if theauthorization code meets a checksum requirement prior to opening theobject data file.
 12. The method of claim 1 wherein the enabling themanufacturing machine to interface with the object data file only if theauthorization code meets one or more predetermined conditions includes:enabling a physical component of the manufacturing machine to functionif the authorization code matches one or more codes in an accessiblelist of codes coupled to the manufacturing machine.
 13. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the enabling the manufacturing machine to interface withthe object data file only if the authorization code meets one or morepredetermined conditions includes: enabling the object data file tobecome readable by the manufacturing machine if the authorization codematches a machine identifier associated with the manufacturing machine.14. The method of claim 1 further comprising: enabling the manufacturingmachine to perform one or more of stereolithography (SLA), selectivelaser sintering (SLS), computer numerical control (CNC), and fuseddeposition modeling (FDM) if the authorization code meets the one ormore predetermined conditions.
 15. The method of claim 1 furthercomprising: enabling the manufacturing machine to perform if theauthorization code meets the one or more predetermined conditions,including performing additive manufacturing using one or more of ABS(Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), ABSi (ABS with high impact strength),ABS M-30 (Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), PC (Polycarbonate), PC-ISO(Polycarbonate-ISO), PC/ABS (Polycarbonate/ABS Blend), PPSF(Polyphenylsulfone), clear and/or colored resin.
 16. The method of claim1 further comprising: enabling the manufacturing machine to perform ifthe authorization code meets the one or more predetermined conditions,including performing three-dimensional manufacturing using one or moreof metal, wood, ice, stone, glass, nuclear materials, pharmaceuticals,edible substances, sand, ceramic materials, aluminum, silicon, carbides,silicon nitrides, silicon carbides, metal/ceramic combinations includingaluminum/silicon nitride, aluminum/silicon carbide, aluminum/zirconiaand aluminum/aluminum nitride including materials alterable by friction,heating and cooling.
 17. The method of claim 1 further comprising:enabling the manufacturing machine to perform if the authorization codemeets the one or more predetermined conditions, including manufacturingusing one or more of skin, textiles, edible substances, paper, andsilicon printing.
 18. A computer program product comprising a computerreadable medium configured to perform one or more acts for performingsecure manufacturing, the one or more acts comprising: one or moreinstructions for identifying at least one object data file configured toproduce an object by a manufacturing machine; one or more instructionsfor confirming that an authorization code is associated with the objectdata file, the authorization code configured to be received by themanufacturing machine, the manufacturing machine adapted to receive theauthorization code; one or more instructions for enabling themanufacturing machine to interface with the object data file only if theauthorization code meets one or more predetermined conditions.
 19. Thecomputer program product of claim 18 further comprising signal-bearingstorage media for encoding the instructions for executing the one ormore acts for performing secure additive manufacturing.
 20. The computerprogram product of claim 18 further comprising signal-bearingcommunication media for encoding the instructions for executing the oneor more acts for performing the secure additive manufacturing.
 21. Thecomputer program product of claim 18 wherein the one or moreinstructions for identifying at least one object data file configured toproduce an object by a manufacturing machine includes: one or moreinstructions for receiving a file at a control system coupled to themanufacturing machine, the control system receiving the file includingthe authorization code and the object data file as one or more of abinary file and/or a stereolithography (STL) file and/or acomputer-aided design (CAD) solid model file and/or a self executingdata file and/or a basic machine tool instruction file.
 22. The computerprogram product of claim 18 wherein the one or more instructions foridentifying at least one object data file configured to produce anobject by a manufacturing machine includes: one or more instructions foridentifying the at least one object data file, wherein the object datafile is configured to produce the object via attaching, printing,painting, engraving and/or tattooing by the manufacturing machine. 23.The computer program product of claim 18 wherein the one or moreinstructions for identifying at least one object data file configured toproduce an object by a manufacturing machine includes: one or moreinstructions for receiving the object data file as a computer-aideddesign (CAD) model file configured to create one or more physicalobjects, the object data file including the authorization codeconfigured as a checksum of the CAD model file.
 24. The computer programproduct of claim 23 wherein the one or more instructions for receivingthe object data file as a computer-aided design (CAD) model fileconfigured to create one or more physical objects, the object data fileincluding the authorization code configured as a checksum of the CADmodel file includes: one or more instructions for enabling themanufacturing machine to interface with the object data file when theone or more predetermined conditions are met, the one or morepredetermined conditions including a pass condition following a logicaloperation on the checksum.
 25. The computer program product of claim 18wherein the one or more instructions for identifying at least one objectdata file configured to produce an object by a manufacturing machineincludes: one or more instructions for extracting the authorization codeas a checksum code; and one or more instructions for comparing thechecksum code to a stored checksum code, the stored checksum codedetermined by a generated machine identifier associated with themanufacturing machine.
 26. The computer program product of claim 18wherein the one or more instructions for identifying at least one objectdata file configured to produce an object by a manufacturing machineincludes: one or more instructions for enabling the manufacturingmachine to perform if the authorization code meets the one or morepredetermined conditions, including performing additive manufacturingusing one or more of a metal, ABS (Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene),ABSi (ABS with high impact strength), ABS M-30(Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), PC (Polycarbonate), PC-ISO(Polycarbonate-ISO), PC/ABS (Polycarbonate/ABS Blend), PPSF(Polyphenylsulfone), clear and/or colored resin.
 27. The computerprogram product of claim 18 further comprising: one or more instructionsfor enabling the manufacturing machine to perform one or more ofstereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), computernumerical control (CNC), and fused deposition modeling (FDM) if theauthorization code meets the one or more predetermined conditions. 28.The computer program product of claim 18 further comprising: one or moreinstructions for enabling the manufacturing machine to perform if theauthorization code meets the one or more predetermined conditions,including performing additive manufacturing using one or more of ABS(Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), ABSi (ABS with high impact strength),ABS M-30 (Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene), PC (Polycarbonate), PC-ISO(Polycarbonate-ISO), PC/ABS (Polycarbonate/ABS Blend), PPSF(Polyphenylsulfone), clear and/or colored resin.
 29. The computerprogram product of claim 18 further comprising: one or more instructionsfor enabling the manufacturing machine to perform if the authorizationcode meets the one or more predetermined conditions, includingperforming three-dimensional manufacturing using one or more of metal,wood, ice, stone, glass, nuclear materials, pharmaceuticals, ediblesubstances, sand, ceramic materials, aluminum, silicon, carbides,silicon nitrides, silicon carbides, metal/ceramic combinations includingaluminum/silicon nitride, aluminum/silicon carbide, aluminum/zirconiaand aluminum/aluminum nitride including materials alterable by friction,heating and cooling.
 30. The computer program product of claim 18further comprising: one or more instructions for enabling themanufacturing machine to perform if the authorization code meets the oneor more predetermined conditions, including manufacturing using one ormore of skin, textiles, edible substances, paper, and silicon printing.31. The computer program product of claim 18 wherein the one or moreinstructions for confirming that an authorization code is associatedwith the object data file, the authorization code configured to bereceived by the manufacturing machine, the manufacturing machine adaptedto receive the authorization code includes: one or more instructions forremoving a header from a file, the header including the authorizationcode, the file organized to include the header and the object data file.32. The computer program product of claim 18 wherein the one or moreinstructions for confirming that an authorization code is associatedwith the object data file, the authorization code configured to bereceived by the manufacturing machine, the manufacturing machine adaptedto receive the authorization code includes: one or more instructions forrunning an application to extract the authorization code, theapplication configured to run a hash algorithm, the applicationdetermining whether the one or more predetermined conditions are met.33. The computer program product of claim 18 wherein the one or moreinstructions for enabling the manufacturing machine to interface withthe object data file only if the authorization code meets one or morepredetermined conditions includes: one or more instructions for enablinga physical component of the manufacturing machine to function if theauthorization code meets the one or more predetermined conditions.
 34. Amanufacturing control system for secure manufacturing comprising: aprocessor; a data store coupled to the processor, the data storeconfigured to contain authorization guideline data including one or moreauthorization codes, the data store adapted for identifying at least oneobject data file configured to produce an object by a manufacturingmachine; a confirmation module coupled to the processor, theconfirmation module configured for confirming that an authorization codeis associated with the object data file, the authorization codeconfigured to be received by the manufacturing machine, themanufacturing machine adapted to receive the authorization code; and anauthorization module coupled to the processor, the authorization moduleconfigured for enabling the manufacturing machine to interface with theobject data file only if the authorization code meets one or morepredetermined conditions.
 35. The manufacturing control system forsecure manufacturing of claim 34 wherein the object data file is acomputer-aided design (CAD) solid model file configured to enable themanufacturing machine to create one or more physical objects, the fileincluding the authorization code configured as a checksum of the CADsolid model file.
 36. The manufacturing control system for securemanufacturing of claim 34 wherein the manufacturing machine is adaptedto interface with the object data file when the one or morepredetermined conditions are met, the one or more predeterminedconditions including a pass condition following a logical operation onthe checksum.
 37. The manufacturing control system for securemanufacturing of claim 34 wherein the confirmation module is configuredfor extracting the authorization code as a checksum code; and whereinthe manufacturing control system further comprises a comparison moduleconfigured for comparing the checksum code to a stored checksum code,the stored checksum code determined by a generated machine identifierassociated with the manufacturing machine.
 38. The manufacturing controlsystem for secure manufacturing of claim 34 further comprising: atransceiver coupled to the processor; and a controller coupled to thetransceiver and the manufacturing machine, the control system adapted toreceive a file including the authorization code and the object data fileas one or more of a binary file and/or a stereolithography (STL) fileand/or a computer-aided design (CAD) solid model file, the controllerconfigured to control production of a physical object.
 39. Themanufacturing control system for secure manufacturing of claim 38wherein the controller is configured for enabling a physical componentof the manufacturing machine to function if the authorization code meetsthe one or more predetermined conditions.
 40. The manufacturing controlsystem for secure manufacturing of claim 38 wherein the controller isconfigured for enabling a physical component of the manufacturingmachine to function if the authorization code meets the one or morepredetermined conditions.
 41. The manufacturing control system forsecure manufacturing of claim 38 wherein the controller is configuredfor enabling a read function of the manufacturing machine if theauthorization code meets a checksum requirement prior to opening theobject data file.
 42. The manufacturing control system for securemanufacturing of claim 38 wherein the controller is configured forenabling a physical component of the manufacturing machine to functionif the authorization code matches one or more codes in a stored list ofcodes.
 43. The manufacturing control system for secure manufacturing ofclaim 38 wherein the controller is configured to control production viaa network connection.
 44. The manufacturing control system for securemanufacturing of claim 43 wherein the network connection is one or moreof an internet connection, a local area network connection, ametropolitan area network connection, a wide area connection and anintranet connection.
 45. The manufacturing control system for securemanufacturing of claim 34 wherein the data store includes authorizationguideline data having one or more of authorization codes, digitalcertificates, and private/public key data.
 46. The manufacturing controlsystem for secure manufacturing of claim 34 wherein the data storeincludes authorization guideline data adapted for identifying at leastone object data file configured to produce an object via additivemanufacturing, three dimensional manufacturing, two-dimensionalmanufacturing, rapid prototyping, three-dimensional printing,two-dimensional printing, freeform fabrication, solid freeformfabrication, and/or stereolithography.
 47. The manufacturing controlsystem for secure manufacturing of claim 34 wherein the data storeincludes authorization guideline data adapted for identifying at leastone object data file configured to produce an object via subtractivemanufacturing, drilling, milling, turning, laser cutting, waterjetcutting, plasma cutting, wire electrical discharge cutting, coldforging, warm forging, hot forging, metal fabrication, computernumerical controlled fabrication, and/or injection molding.
 48. Themanufacturing control system for secure manufacturing of claim 34wherein the data store includes authorization guideline data adapted foridentifying at least one object data file configured to produce anobject via manufacturing using one or more of skin, textiles, ediblesubstances, paper, and silicon printing.
 49. The manufacturing controlsystem for secure manufacturing of claim 34 wherein the data storeincludes authorization guideline data adapted for identifying at leastone object data file configured to produce an object via stamping,extrusions, melting, die-casting, and/or solidifying.